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Maia C. Sand fly-borne diseases in Europe: epidemiological overview and potential triggers for their emergence and re-emergence. J Comp Pathol 2024; 209:6-12. [PMID: 38320331 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Phlebotominae) are vectors of human and animal pathogens, including Leishmania species protozoan parasites and viruses of the genus Phlebovirus. In Europe, visceral zoonotic leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum, a deadly disease when left untreated, is endemic in southern countries, and dogs are the main reservoir hosts for human infection. Most phleboviruses cause asymptomatic infections or flu-like syndromes in humans, but Toscana phlebovirus can cause meningitis and encephalitis. These diseases are likely to re-emerge, posing a growing threat to public and animal health. Potential triggers include the movement of humans and dogs, increasing numbers of immunosuppressive conditions, climate change and other human-mediated environmental changes. An overview of the main epidemiological characteristics of the pathogens transmitted by sand flies in Europe and the potential triggers involved in their emergence and re-emergence are reviewed here. There is a need to implement mandatory notification of human and canine leishmaniases and human phleboviruses and coordinated epidemiological surveillance programmes at a European level, and to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and citizens about sand fly-borne diseases, following a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1348-009, Lisboa, Portugal.
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Isolation and Identification of Sandfly-Borne Viruses from Sandflies Collected from June to August, 2019, in Yangquan County, China. Viruses 2022; 14:v14122692. [PMID: 36560697 PMCID: PMC9782482 DOI: 10.3390/v14122692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In Yangquan County, the sandfly-transmitted virus (Wuxiang virus) was first isolated from sandflies in 2018. However, relationships between the abundance and seasonal fluctuations of local sandflies and sandfly-transmitted viruses are unknown. Herein, we report that sandfly specimens were collected in three villages in Yangquan County, from June to August, 2019. A total of 8363 sandflies were collected (June, 7927; July, 428; August, 8). Eighteen virus strains (June, 18; July, 0; August, 0) were isolated in pools of Phlebotomus chinensis. The genome sequence of the newly isolated virus strain was highly similar to that of the Wuxiang virus (WUXV), isolated from sandflies in Yangquan County in 2018. Our results suggested that the sandfly-transmitted viruses, and the local sandfly population, are stable in Yangquan County, and that June is the peak period for the virus carried by sandflies in this area.
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Sandfly-Borne Phleboviruses in Portugal: Four and Still Counting. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081768. [PMID: 36016390 PMCID: PMC9413822 DOI: 10.3390/v14081768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
According to ICTV, there are currently 66 known phlebovirus species. More than 40 of these viruses were isolated or detected in phlebotomine sandflies and some of them are known pathogens. In Portugal, information about sandfly-borne phleboviruses is scarce and scattered sandfly-borne diseases are neglected and often not considered in differential diagnoses. The main objective of this work was to gather the existing information and to raise awareness about the circulating phleboviruses in this country. To date, Massilia and Alcube phleboviruses have been isolated from sandflies in southern Portugal. Human infections with Toscana and Sicilian phleboviruses have been reported, as well as seroprevalence in cats and dogs. More studies are needed in order to understand if the viruses isolated during the entomological surveys have an impact on human health and to fully understand the real importance of the already recognized pathogens in our country.
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Abstract
A 3.8-year-old Italian girl presenting with high fever and headache developed a decrease in the state of consciousness, apneas, bradycardia thus requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation. Sandfly fever due to Cyprus virus, previously not reported in a child, outside an endemic area, must be included in the differential diagnosis of acute encephalopathy with apparently no explanation from the usual laboratory work-up.
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Moalem Y, Malis Y, Voloshin K, Dukhovny A, Hirschberg K, Sklan EH. Sandfly Fever Viruses Attenuate the Type I Interferon Response by Targeting the Phosphorylation of JAK-STAT Components. Front Immunol 2022; 13:865797. [PMID: 35720342 PMCID: PMC9198438 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.865797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sandfly fever viruses are emerging Phleboviruses typically causing mild febrile illness. Some strains, however, can cause severe and occasionally fatal neuro-invasive disease. Like most viruses, Phleboviruses have devised various strategies to inhibit the type I interferon (IFN) response to support a productive infection. Still, most of the strategies identified so far focus on inhibiting the sensing arm of the IFN response. In contrast, the effect of sandfly virus infection on signaling from the IFN receptor is less characterized. Therefore, we tested the effect of sandfly fever virus Naples (SFNV) and Sicily (SFSV) infection on IFN signaling. We found that infection with either of these viruses inhibits signaling from the IFN receptor by inhibiting STAT1 phosphorylation and nuclear localization. We show that the viral nonstructural protein NSs mediates these effects, but only NSs from SFNV was found to interact with STAT1 directly. Thus, we tested the upstream IFN signaling components and found that Janus kinase 1 (Jak1) phosphorylation is also impaired by infection. Furthermore, the NSs proteins from both viruses directly interacted with Jak1. Last, we show that IFN inhibition by SFNV and SFSV is most likely downstream of the IFN receptor at the Jak1 level. Overall, our results reveal the multiple strategies used by these related viruses to overcome host defenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yarden Moalem
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yehonathan Malis
- Department of Pathology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Konstantin Voloshin
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anna Dukhovny
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Koret Hirschberg
- Department of Pathology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ella H Sklan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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6
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Wuerth JD, Weber F. NSs of the mildly virulent sandfly fever Sicilian virus is unable to inhibit interferon signaling and upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes. J Gen Virol 2021; 102. [PMID: 34726591 PMCID: PMC8742993 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Phleboviruses (order Bunyavirales, family Phenuiviridae) are globally emerging arboviruses with a wide spectrum of virulence. Sandfly fever Sicilian virus (SFSV) is one of the most ubiquitous members of the genus Phlebovirus and associated with a self-limited, incapacitating febrile disease in travellers and military troops. The phleboviral NSs protein is an established virulence factor, acting as antagonist of the antiviral interferon (IFN) system. Consistently, we previously reported that SFSV NSs targets the induction of IFN mRNA synthesis by specifically binding to the DNA-binding domain of the IFN transcription factor IRF3. Here, we further characterized the effect of SFSV and its NSs towards IFN induction, and evaluated its potential to affect the downstream IFN-stimulated signalling and the subsequent transactivation of antiviral interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). We found that SFSV dampened, but did not entirely abolish type I and type III IFN induction. Furthermore, SFSV NSs did not affect IFN signalling, resulting in substantial ISG expression in infected cells. Hence, although SFSV targets IRF3 to reduce IFN induction, it is not capable of entirely disarming the IFN system in the presence of high basal IRF3 and/or IRF7 levels, and we speculate that this significantly contributes to its low level of virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Deborah Wuerth
- Institute for Virology, FB10-Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Institute of Innate Immunity, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Friedemann Weber
- Institute for Virology, FB10-Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
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Wang J, Fu S, Xu Z, Cheng J, Shi M, Fan N, Song J, Tian X, Cheng J, Ni S, He Y, Lei W, Li F, Peng H, Wang B, Wang H, Lu X, Ma Y, Liang G. Emerging Sand Fly-Borne Phlebovirus in China. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 26:2435-2438. [PMID: 32946723 PMCID: PMC7510709 DOI: 10.3201/eid2610.191374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We isolated 17 viral strains capable of causing cytopathic effects in mammalian cells and death in neonatal mice from sand flies in China. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these strains belonged to the genus Phlebovirus. These findings highlight the need to control this potentially emerging virus to help safeguard public health.
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Soltan-Alinejad P, Soltani A. Vector-borne diseases and tourism in Iran: Current issues and recommendations. Travel Med Infect Dis 2021; 43:102108. [PMID: 34111565 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2021.102108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Iran is one of the largest countries in the Middle East with lots of historical and natural attractions. This country has always been considered to be one of the most important tourist destinations in the world. Several important vector-borne diseases have been reported from different parts of the country. Thus, having comprehensive and adequate knowledge about the main vector-borne diseases in Iran and their high-risk areas are really important. In this review, different provinces of Iran have been studied in terms of arthropod-borne diseases reported in the last decades. Reports indicated that some vector-borne diseases such as Leishmaniasis and CCHF had the highest incidence rate and they need serious attention. However, some diseases reported from Iran are not endemic, and all cases were imported such as Dengue fever. A group of arthropod-borne diseases was reported only from animals, and the health of travelers is not threatened such as Eyeworm infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Soltan-Alinejad
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Aboozar Soltani
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Xu X, Cheng J, Fu S, Wang Q, Wang J, Lu X, Tian X, Cheng J, Ni S, He Y, Li F, Xu S, Wang H, Wang B, Liang G. Wuxiang Virus Is a Virus Circulated Naturally in Wuxiang County, China. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:289-300. [PMID: 33600240 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Wuxiang virus was isolated from sandfly specimens collected in Wuxiang County, Shanxi Province, China in 2018, representing the first reported isolation of sandfly-borne virus from sandflies collected in a natural environment in China. The local sandfly density, seasonal fluctuations, and temporal and spatial distributions of the virus in Wuxiang County remain unclear. Materials and Methods: Four fixed sandfly collection sites were set up in Wuxiang County and sandfly specimens were collected continuously from June to August 2019. All sandfly specimens were subjected to viral isolation and molecular biological analysis. Results: The data on sandfly specimens collected in Wuxiang County from June to August 2019 showed a significant difference in the density of sandflies between June 26 and August 16 (p < 0.05). No statistical difference was found in sandfly density among collection sites (p > 0.05). A total of 33 virus isolates causing cytopathic effects in mammalian (BHK-21) cells were obtained from 7466 sandflies (91 pools) collected from June to August 2019. The results of molecular genetic evolution analysis of the nucleotide sequence of these isolates showed that the L and S genes (encoding NS and N proteins) of the 33 viruses isolated in 2019 are in the same evolutionary branch as the previously isolated Wuxiang virus. No significant difference was found in the virus isolation rate (the pool isolation rate of virus) among sandflies collected at different times from June to August (p > 0.05). The virus isolation rate of sandflies collected at different collection sites showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the Wuxiang virus is a stable viral population in local sandflies. Strengthened research into Wuxiang virus infection of humans and animals and clarification of the public health hazards posed by Wuxiang virus to both humans and animals are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyan Xu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jingxia Cheng
- Shanxi Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Taiyuan, China
| | - Shihong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Qinyan Wang
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqing Lu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaodong Tian
- Shanxi Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianshu Cheng
- Wuxiang County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxiang, China
| | - Shuqing Ni
- Wuxiang County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxiang, China
| | - Ying He
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Songtao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Huanyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guodong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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Minakshi P, Ghosh M, Kumar R, Brar B, Lambe UP, Banerjee S, Ranjan K, Kumar B, Goel P, Malik YS, Prasad G. An Insight into Nanomedicinal Approaches to Combat Viral Zoonoses. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 20:915-962. [PMID: 32209041 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200325114400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging viral zoonotic diseases are one of the major obstacles to secure the "One Health" concept under the current scenario. Current prophylactic, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches often associated with certain limitations and thus proved to be insufficient for customizing rapid and efficient combating strategy against the highly transmissible pathogenic infectious agents leading to the disastrous socio-economic outcome. Moreover, most of the viral zoonoses originate from the wildlife and poor knowledge about the global virome database renders it difficult to predict future outbreaks. Thus, alternative management strategy in terms of improved prophylactic vaccines and their delivery systems; rapid and efficient diagnostics and effective targeted therapeutics are the need of the hour. METHODS Structured literature search has been performed with specific keywords in bibliographic databases for the accumulation of information regarding current nanomedicine interventions along with standard books for basic virology inputs. RESULTS Multi-arrayed applications of nanomedicine have proved to be an effective alternative in all the aspects regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and control of zoonotic viral diseases. The current review is focused to outline the applications of nanomaterials as anti-viral vaccines or vaccine/drug delivery systems, diagnostics and directly acting therapeutic agents in combating the important zoonotic viral diseases in the recent scenario along with their potential benefits, challenges and prospects to design successful control strategies. CONCLUSION This review provides significant introspection towards the multi-arrayed applications of nanomedicine to combat several important zoonotic viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad Minakshi
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar-125001, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Mayukh Ghosh
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, RGSC, Banaras Hindu University, Mirzapur (UP) - 231001, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar-125001, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Basanti Brar
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar-125001, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Upendra P Lambe
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar-125001, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Somesh Banerjee
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Immunology Section, LUVAS, Hisar-125004, India
| | - Koushlesh Ranjan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, 250110, India
| | | | - Parveen Goel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Yashpal S Malik
- Division of Standardisation, Indian Veterinary Research Institute Izatnagar - Bareilly (UP) - 243122, India
| | - Gaya Prasad
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, UP, 250110, India
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Epidemiology of Toscana virus in South Tuscany over the years 2011-2019. J Clin Virol 2020; 128:104452. [PMID: 32474372 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2020.104452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toscana virus (TOSV) is a Phlebovirus transmitted to humans by phlebotomines and represent an etiological agent of acute aseptic meningitis (AAM) in countries where the virus is endemic, including Italy. Incidence of TOSV infections is closely associated with the geographical distribution of the phlebotomine vectors which in turn is affected by climate changes that determine survival and spread. As a result, TOSV infections show a seasonal trend with a peak of incidence in summer months. OBJECTIVES To measure the prevalence of TOSV infections in AAM patients in central Italy and evaluate the climate changes in phlebotomine vectors ecology and virus propagation. STUDY DESIGN One thousand and seventy-three cerebrospinal fluid samples (CSFs), collected from patients with suspected viral meningitis, were collected over nine years (2011-2019) during the May to October period and tested for viruses most commonly associated with AAM. Serum samples addressed to the Microbiology and Virology Unit of "S. Maria delle Scotte" Hospital for confirmation acute TOSV infection (n = 324) were tested for TOSV-specific IgM and IgG. RESULTS Among the CSF samples, 1.3% were positive for Enteroviruses; 0.9% for Varicella zoster virus, 1.9% for Herpes simplex virus type-1/2 and 4.6% for TOSV. Serum IgM analyses disclosed TOSV-specific IgM in 27.1% of sera suggesting the predominant involvement of TOSV in neuroinvasive infections. CONCLUSIONS This data confirms the predominant role of TOSV as causative agent of AAM during the summer time in endemic countries. Moreover, climate changes affecting phlebotomine vectors persistence, reproduction and activity could be involved in the cyclic nature of TOSV infection reported during the last nine years.
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Host Species Determines the Composition of the Prokaryotic Microbiota in Phlebotomus Sandflies. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9060428. [PMID: 32485988 PMCID: PMC7350354 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9060428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Phlebotomine sandflies are vectors of the humans' and mammals' parasite Leishmania spp. Although the role of gut microbiome in the biological cycle of insects is acknowledged, we still know little about the factors modulating the composition of the gut microbiota of sandflies. We tested whether host species impose a strong structural effect on the gut microbiota of Phlebotomus spp. Sandflies were collected from the island of Leros, Greece, and classified to P. papatasi, P. neglectus, P. tobbi, and P. similis, all being negative to Leishmania spp. The prokaryotic gut microbiota was determined via 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Phlebotomus species supported distinct microbial communities (p < 0.001). P. papatasi microbiota was the most distinct over-dominated by three Spiroplasma, Wolbachia and Paenibacillus operational taxonomic units (OTUs), while another Wolbachia OTU prevailed in P. neglectus. Conversely, the microbiota of P. tobbi and P. similis was composed of several less dominant OTUs. Archaea showed low presence with the dominant OTUs belonging to methanogenic Euryarcheota, ammonia-oxidizing Thaumarcheota, and Nanoarchaeota. We provide first insights into the composition of the bacterial and archaeal community of Phlebotomus sandflies and showed that, in the absence of Leishmania, host genotype is the major modulator of Phlebotomus sandfly gut microbiota.
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Morini S, Calzolari M, Rossini G, Pascarelli N, Porcellini A, Randi V, Re MC, Albieri A, Bonilauri P, Bellini R, Ayhan N, Charrel R, Varani S. Detection of Specific Antibodies against Toscana Virus among Blood Donors in Northeastern Italy and Correlation with Sand Fly Abundance in 2014. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8020145. [PMID: 31973058 PMCID: PMC7074719 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8020145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toscana virus (TOSV) is a Phlebovirus transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies and is an important etiological agent of summer meningitis in the Mediterranean basin. Since TOSV infection is often asymptomatic, we evaluated the seroprevalence in blood donors (BDs) in the Bologna and Ferrara provinces (Northeastern Italy)-the areas with the highest and lowest numbers of TOSV neuroinvasive cases in the region, respectively. A total of 1208 serum samples from BDs were collected in April-June 2014 and evaluated for the presence of specific TOSV-IgG by ELISA. The IgG-reactive samples were confirmed by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIF) and by microneutralization test (MN). Serum samples were defined as positive for anti-TOSV IgG when reactive by ELISA and by at least one second-level test; TOSV seroprevalence was 6.8% in the Bologna province, while no circulation of TOSV was detected in the Ferrara province. Sand fly abundance in 2014 was also estimated by a geographic information system using a generalized linear model applied to a series of explanatory variables. TOSV seroprevalence rate was strongly associated with the sand fly abundance index in each municipality, pointing out the strong association between sand fly abundance and human exposure to TOSV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Morini
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, Regional Reference Centre for Microbiological Emergencies (CRREM), St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (S.M.); (G.R.)
| | - Mattia Calzolari
- Laboratory of Entomology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna “B. Ubertini” (IZLER), 42124 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Giada Rossini
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, Regional Reference Centre for Microbiological Emergencies (CRREM), St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (S.M.); (G.R.)
| | - Nadia Pascarelli
- Centro Regionale Sangue Emilia-Romagna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (N.P.); (A.P.); (V.R.)
| | - Andrea Porcellini
- Centro Regionale Sangue Emilia-Romagna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (N.P.); (A.P.); (V.R.)
| | - Vanda Randi
- Centro Regionale Sangue Emilia-Romagna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (N.P.); (A.P.); (V.R.)
| | - Maria Carla Re
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, Regional Reference Centre for Microbiological Emergencies (CRREM), St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (S.M.); (G.R.)
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Albieri
- Department of Medical and Veterinary Entomology, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente ‘G. Nicoli’, 40014 Crevalcore, Italy; (A.A.); (R.B.)
| | - Paolo Bonilauri
- Laboratory of Entomology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna “B. Ubertini” (IZLER), 42124 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Romeo Bellini
- Department of Medical and Veterinary Entomology, Centro Agricoltura Ambiente ‘G. Nicoli’, 40014 Crevalcore, Italy; (A.A.); (R.B.)
| | - Nazli Ayhan
- Unité des Virus Emergents (UVE: Aix Marseille Univ, IRD 190, INSERM 1207, IHU Méditerranée Infection), 13005 Marseille, France; (N.A.); (R.C.)
| | - Remi Charrel
- Unité des Virus Emergents (UVE: Aix Marseille Univ, IRD 190, INSERM 1207, IHU Méditerranée Infection), 13005 Marseille, France; (N.A.); (R.C.)
| | - Stefania Varani
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, Regional Reference Centre for Microbiological Emergencies (CRREM), St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (S.M.); (G.R.)
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-2143013
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Circulation of Toscana Virus in a Sample Population of Corsica, France. Viruses 2019; 11:v11090817. [PMID: 31487870 PMCID: PMC6784206 DOI: 10.3390/v11090817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sandfly-borne phleboviruses pathogenic to humans, such as Toscana virus (TOSV) and Sandfly Fever Sicilian virus (SFSV), are endemic in the Mediterranean region. In France, several autochthonous cases of TOSV infection have been described, causing either meningitis or encephalitis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the seroprevalence of TOSV and SFSV antibodies in a healthy population from Corsica. In this cross-sectional study, participants were enrolled (i) from a medical staff at the University of Corsica and (ii) from general practitioners of the Corsican Sentinelles Network. The seroprevalence study was based on a virus microneutralization assay. A total of 240 sera were tested. Altogether, 54 sera (22.5%) were confirmed positive for TOSV antibodies, whereas none were positive for SFSV (0/240). The residential district of participants was significantly associated with TOSV seropositivity (p value = 0.005). The rate of the seropositivity against TOSV in our study suggests that the Corsican population is well exposed to the TOSV. These results encourage the implementation of a systematic surveillance system including entomological, microbiological, and medical aspects for the collection of better information on the diseases that are associated with phleboviruses in Corsica and beyond in the regions where these viruses are present.
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Kniha E, Obwaller AG, Dobler G, Poeppl W, Mooseder G, Walochnik J. Phlebovirus seroprevalence in Austrian Army personnel returning from missions abroad. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:416. [PMID: 31445517 PMCID: PMC6708154 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3674-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Phleboviruses are mainly transmitted by sand flies and infections can result in various symptoms, including meningitis and meningoencephalitis. In endemic regions, seroprevalences in humans and animals are high. Military personnel on missions in endemic areas are at increased risk of infection, however, for soldiers from central European countries, data are scarce. The aims of this study were to determine the exposure to phleboviruses of Austrian soldiers returning from missions abroad and to assess potential risk factors. A retrospective serological study was performed with sera of 753 healthy Austrian soldiers returning from missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BIH, n = 61), Kosovo (n = 261), Syria (n = 101) and Lebanon (n = 63) and of soldiers prior to their missions (n = 267). Results Altogether, 119 sera (15.8%, 119/753) were positive for anti-Phlebovirus IgG antibodies, with highest seroprevalences found in soldiers returning from Kosovo (20.69%, 54/261), followed by Syria (17.82%, 18/101), Lebanon (14.29%, 9/63) and BIH (11.48%, 7/61). Of the soldiers tested prior to their missions 11.61% (31/267) were positive. Of the 119 seropositive individuals, 30 (25.2%, 30/119) also had anti-Phlebovirus IgM antibodies. Phlebovirus seropositivity significantly correlated with symptoms of febrile illness during the respective mission (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.4, P = 0.03) and with Leishmania seropositivity (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.2–5.8, P = 0.009). Also, the outdoor activity “running” during the mission showed a strong trend towards an association with Phlebovirus seropositivity (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 0.9–4.4, P = 0.08), and seropositivity generally increased with the duration of a mission (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 0.9–7.5, P = 0.07). Conclusions This study indicates that soldiers are exposed to sand flies and at significant risk for Phlebovirus infection during missions in the Mediterranean area and the Middle East. Adequate prevention measures should be applied particularly during vespertine outdoor activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Kniha
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Adelheid G Obwaller
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Federal Ministry of Defence, Division of Science, Research and Development, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Dobler
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (BwIM), Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Poeppl
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Military Medical Cluster East, Austrian Armed Forces, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Mooseder
- Department of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Military Medical Cluster East, Austrian Armed Forces, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Papa A. Emerging arboviruses of medical importance in the Mediterranean region. J Clin Virol 2019; 115:5-10. [PMID: 30928817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2019.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The epidemiology of viral infections transmitted by arthropods is changing due to a variety of parameters related to the virus, the host and the environment. The Mediterranean region is highly affected by changes in the intensity and extension of global-scale climate patterns, and, due to its location, it provides a vulnerable environment for emergence of arboviral diseases. The main arboviruses that pose currently a public health threat in the Mediterranean region are West Nile virus and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus and, in less extend, tick-borne encephalitis virus. Usutu virus that affects mainly birds, can infect also humans, while Dengue and Chikungunya viruses showed that they are capable to cause sporadic autochthonous cases, and even outbreaks in the Mediterranean region. Sandly-transmitted viruses continue to have a public health impact, and novel ones have been identified. The presence of competent vectors (mainly mosquitoes), combined by arbovirus introduction through viremic travelers returning from endemic regions, prompt for increased surveillance to mitigate the risk for local transmission. In order to tackle efficiently and effectively the emerging arboviral diseases, an integrated "One Health initiative" is required to be maintained, involving public health, animal health and environmental authorities. Awareness of medical and veterinary staff and laboratory capacity are crucial for the early detection of pathogens, while reporting the unusual and enhance surveillance are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Papa
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, 54124, Greece.
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17
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Badakhshan M, Yaghoobi-Ershadi MR, Moin-Vaziri V, Charrel R, Hanafi-Bojd AA, Rezaei F, Akhavan AA, Rassi Y, Oshaghi MA. Spatial Distribution of Phlebotomine Sand Flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) as Phlebovirus Vectors in Different Areas of Iran. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 55:846-854. [PMID: 29554299 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Sand fly fever is caused by Naples (SFNV) and Sicilian viruses (SFSV) and the closely related Toscana virus of the Phlebovirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, and transmitted by Phlebotomine sand flies. Phlebotomus papatasi Scopoli, 1786 is known as the main vector of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the distribution of Phlebotomine sand flies as vector of sand fly fever viruses, and the effects of some environmental variables on their potential dispersion to new areas in some provinces of Iran. Sand flies were collected during their active season in the region using CDC light traps. Ecological parameters were recorded for each collection site. Arc GIS 10.3 software was used for data analysis and mapping the distribution of sand flies. Sampling in the study areas was carried out in six different climatic zones. Seventeen sand fly species were collected including eight species of genus Phlebotomus and nine species of genus Sergentomyia. The Medium Semi-Arid climatic zone had the highest species diversity. Fourteen species of sand flies were collected at altitude between 2 and 325 m, and seven species were collected between 326 and 1380 m above sea level. There was significant correlation between sand fly density and all tested environmental variables. Phlebotominae sand flies have wide distribution in Iran and have a major public health concern in the country. P. papatasi and Sergentomyia sintoni Pringle, 1933 prefers hot summers and rainfall. This poses a threat of transmission of sand fly fever caused by SFSV and SFNV across the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Badakhshan
- Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Yaghoobi-Ershadi
- Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahideh Moin-Vaziri
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Remi Charrel
- UMR 'Emergence des Pathologies Virales' (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ. - IRD 190 - INSERM 1207 - EHESP), Marseille, France
| | - Ahmad Ali Hanafi-Bojd
- Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhad Rezaei
- Department of Medical Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Ahmad Akhavan
- Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yavar Rassi
- Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Oshaghi
- Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Calzolari M, Chiapponi C, Bellini R, Bonilauri P, Lelli D, Moreno A, Barbieri I, Pongolini S, Lavazza A, Dottori M. Isolation of three novel reassortant phleboviruses, Ponticelli I, II, III, and of Toscana virus from field-collected sand flies in Italy. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:84. [PMID: 29409533 PMCID: PMC5802049 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2668-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Different phleboviruses are important pathogens for humans; most of these viruses are transmitted by sand flies. An increasing number of new phleboviruses have been reported over the past decade, especially in Mediterranean countries, mainly via their detection in sand flies. Results At least five different phleboviruses co-circulated in sand flies that were collected in three sites in Emilia-Romagna (Italy) in the summer of 2013. The well-known Toscana virus (TOSV) was isolated; three new, closely related phleboviruses differing in their M segments and tentatively named Ponticelli I, Ponticelli II and Ponticelli III virus, respectively, were isolated; a fifth putative phlebovirus, related to the sand fly fever Naples phlebovirus species, was also detected. The co-circulation, in a restricted area, of three viruses characterized by different M segments, likely resulted from reassortment events. According to the phylogenetic analysis of complete genome sequences, the TOSV belongs to clade A, together with other Italian isolates, while the Ponticelli viruses fall within the Salehabad phlebovirus species. Conclusions Results highlight an unexpected diversity of phleboviruses that co-circulate in the same area, suggesting that interactions likely occur amongst them, that can present challenges for their correct identification. The co-circulation of different phleboviruses appears to be common, and the bionomics of sand fly populations seem to play a relevant role. Such a complex situation emphasizes the need for detailed investigations of the biology of these viruses to better characterize their pathogenic potential for mammals, including humans. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2668-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Calzolari
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Chiapponi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Romeo Bellini
- Centro Agricoltura Ambiente "Giorgio Nicoli", Crevalcore, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Bonilauri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Davide Lelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Ana Moreno
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Barbieri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Pongolini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Lavazza
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
| | - Michele Dottori
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna "Bruno Ubertini", Brescia, Italy
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Alkan C, Moin Vaziri V, Ayhan N, Badakhshan M, Bichaud L, Rahbarian N, Javadian EA, Alten B, de Lamballerie X, Charrel RN. Isolation and sequencing of Dashli virus, a novel Sicilian-like virus in sandflies from Iran; genetic and phylogenetic evidence for the creation of one novel species within the Phlebovirus genus in the Phenuiviridae family. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005978. [PMID: 29281639 PMCID: PMC5760094 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Phlebotomine sandflies are vectors of phleboviruses that cause sandfly fever or meningitis with significant implications for public health. Although several strains of these viruses had been isolated in Iran in the late 1970's, there was no recent data about the present situation at the outset of this study. Entomological investigations performed in 2009 and 2011 in Iran collected 4,770 sandflies from 10 different regions. Based on morphological identification, they were sorted into 315 pools according to species, sex, trapping station and date of capture. A phlebovirus, provisionally named Dashli virus (DASHV), was isolated from one pool of Sergentomyia spp, and subsequently DASHV RNA was detected in a second pool of Phlebotomus papatasi. Genetic and phylogenetic analyses based on complete coding genomic sequences indicated that (i) DASHV is most closely related to the Iranian isolates of Sandfly fever Sicilian virus [SFSV], (ii) there is a common ancestor to DASHV, Sandfly fever Sicilian- (SFS) and SFS-like viruses isolated in Italy, India, Turkey, and Cyprus (lineage I), (iii) DASHV is more distantly related with Corfou and Toros viruses (lineage II) although common ancestry is supported with 100% bootstrap, (iii) lineage I can be subdivided into sublineage Ia including all SFSV, SFCV and SFTV except those isolated in Iran which forms sublineage Ib (DASHV). Accordingly, we suggest to approve Sandfly fever Sicilian virus species consisting of the all aforementioned viruses. Owing that most of these viruses have been identified in human patients with febrile illness, DASHV should be considered as a potential human pathogen in Iran. Phlebotomine sandflies are vectors of phleboviruses that cause sandfly fever or meningitis with significant implications for public health. Although several strains of these viruses had been isolated in Iran in the late 1970's, there was no recent data about the present situation at the outset of this study. Entomological investigations performed in 2009 and 2011 in Iran collected 4,770 sandflies from 10 different regions. A phlebovirus, provisionally named Dashli virus (DASHV), was isolated / detected in two pools. DASHV strain was isolated in cell culture and complete genome sequence was determined. Sequence analysis indicated that (i) DASHV is most closely related to the Iranian isolates of Sandfly fever Sicilian virus [SFSV], a virus that is known to cause self-resolutive incapacitating febrile illness in humans, (ii) there is a common ancestor to DASHV and all other variants of SFSV isolated in Italy, India, Turkey, and Cyprus (lineage I), (iii) DASHV is more distantly related with Corfou and Toros viruses (lineage II) although common ancestry is supported with 100% bootstrap, (iii) lineage I can be subdivided into sublineage Ia including all SFSV strains, whereas Iranian viruses are most closely related and should be individualized as DASHV (sublineage Ib). Although discovered first in the 1940's, SFSV is still listed as "tentative species" by the International Committee for Taxonomy of Viruses. Based on the results described in this study, we propose to approve Sandfly fever Sicilian virus species. Owing that most of these viruses have been identified in human patients with febrile illness, DASHV should be considered as a potential human pathogen in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cigdem Alkan
- UMR "Unité des Virus Emergents" (UVE Aix-Marseille Univ—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Vahideh Moin Vaziri
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail: (RNC); (VMV)
| | - Nazli Ayhan
- UMR "Unité des Virus Emergents" (UVE Aix-Marseille Univ—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Mehdi Badakhshan
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Laurence Bichaud
- UMR "Unité des Virus Emergents" (UVE Aix-Marseille Univ—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Nourina Rahbarian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ezat-Aldin Javadian
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bulent Alten
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Ecology Section, ESR Laboratories, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Xavier de Lamballerie
- UMR "Unité des Virus Emergents" (UVE Aix-Marseille Univ—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Remi N. Charrel
- UMR "Unité des Virus Emergents" (UVE Aix-Marseille Univ—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
- * E-mail: (RNC); (VMV)
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Koch LK, Kochmann J, Klimpel S, Cunze S. Modeling the climatic suitability of leishmaniasis vector species in Europe. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13325. [PMID: 29042642 PMCID: PMC5645347 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13822-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change will affect the geographical distribution of many species in the future. Phlebotomine sandflies are vector species for leishmaniasis, a tropical neglected disease. We applied an ensemble forecasting niche modeling approach to project future changes in climatic suitability for ten vector competent sandfly species in Europe. Whereas the main area of sandfly distribution currently lies in the Mediterranean region, models generally projected a northwards expansion of areas with suitable climatic conditions for most species (P. alexandri, P. neglectus, P. papatasi, P. perfiliewi, P. tobbi) in the future. The range of distribution for only two species (P. ariasi, P. mascittii) was projected to decline in the future. According to our results, a higher number of vector competent species in Central Europe can generally be expected, assuming no limitations to dispersal. We recommend monitoring for the establishment of vector species, especially in areas with projected climatic suitability for multiple vector species, as a precautious strategy. An increased number of vector species, or a higher abundance of a single species, might result in a higher transmission risk of leishmaniasis, provided that the pathogens follow the projected range shifts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa K Koch
- Goethe-University, Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Frankfurt/Main, D-60438, Germany.
- Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Frankfurt/Main, D-60325, Germany.
| | - Judith Kochmann
- Goethe-University, Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Frankfurt/Main, D-60438, Germany
- Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Frankfurt/Main, D-60325, Germany
| | - Sven Klimpel
- Goethe-University, Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Frankfurt/Main, D-60438, Germany
- Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Frankfurt/Main, D-60325, Germany
| | - Sarah Cunze
- Goethe-University, Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Frankfurt/Main, D-60438, Germany
- Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Frankfurt/Main, D-60325, Germany
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21
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Phlebotomine sand fly-borne pathogens in the Mediterranean Basin: Human leishmaniasis and phlebovirus infections. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005660. [PMID: 28796786 PMCID: PMC5552025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogens transmitted to humans by phlebotomine sand flies are neglected, as they cause infectious diseases that are not on the priority list of national and international public health systems. However, the infections caused by protozoa of the Leishmania genus and viruses belonging to the Phlebovirus genus (family Phenuiviridae)—the most significant group of viruses transmitted by sand flies—have a relevant role for human pathology. These infections are emerging in the Mediterranean region and will likely spread in forthcoming decades, posing a complex threat to human health. Four species and 2 hybrid strains of Leishmania are pathogenic for humans in the Mediterranean Basin, with an estimated annual incidence of 239,500–393,600 cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis and 1,200–2,000 cases of visceral leishmaniasis. Among the phleboviruses, Toscana virus can cause neuroinvasive infections, while other phleboviruses are responsible for a typical “3-day fever”; the actual incidence of Phlebovirus infections in the Mediterranean area is unknown, although at least 250 million people are exposed. Here, we reviewed the current literature on epidemiology of sand fly–borne infections in the Mediterranean Basin, with a focus on humans. Our analysis indicates the need for increased public health activities directed to determine the disease burden of these infections as well as to improve their surveillance. Among the emerging challenges concerning sand fly–borne pathogens, the relationships between sand fly–borne protozoa and viruses should be considered in future studies, including epidemiological links between Leishmania and phleboviruses as well as the conditional capacity for these pathogens to be involved in interactions that may evolve towards increased virulence.
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Ayhan N, Charrel RN. Of phlebotomines (sandflies) and viruses: a comprehensive perspective on a complex situation. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2017; 22:117-124. [PMID: 28805633 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2017.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Old World sandfly-borne phleboviruses are classified into three serological complexes: Sandfly fever Sicilian, Sandfly fever Naples and Salehabad. Human pathogens (febrile illness ['sandfly fever'], neuroinvasive infections) belong to the two first complexes. The increasing number of newly discovered sandfly-borne phleboviruses raises concerns about their medical and veterinary importance. They occupy a wide geographic area from Mediterranean basin to North Africa and the Middle East to the central Asia. At least nine species of sandflies can transmit these viruses. Recent results suggest that sandfly vectors are not as specific for viruses as initially believed. Recent seroprevalence studies demonstrate that humans and domestic animals are heavily exposed. Specific molecular diagnostic methods must be developed and implemented in clinical microbiology laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Ayhan
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - EHESP - IHU Mediterranee Infection), Marseille, France
| | - Remi N Charrel
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - EHESP - IHU Mediterranee Infection), Marseille, France; Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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23
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Pierro A, Ficarelli S, Ayhan N, Morini S, Raumer L, Bartoletti M, Mastroianni A, Prati F, Schivazappa S, Cenni P, Vocale C, Rossini G, Gaibani P, Sambri V, Landini MP, Lewis RE, Charrel RN, Varani S. Characterization of antibody response in neuroinvasive infection caused by Toscana virus. Clin Microbiol Infect 2017; 23:868-873. [PMID: 28344163 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Among sandfly-borne pathogens, Toscana virus (TOSV) is a prominent cause of summer meningitis in Mediterranean Europe. Here, we assessed the kinetics of anti-TOSV antibodies over time in 41 patients diagnosed with TOSV meningitis or meningoencephalitis in northeastern Italy. METHODS Acute and follow-up serum samples were collected up to 20 months after diagnosis of TOSV infection and tested for the presence of specific antibody using immunoenzymatic and indirect immunofluorescence assays. In addition, maturation of anti-TOSV IgG over time was evaluated as well as production of neutralizing antibodies. RESULTS Specific IgM and IgG response was present at diagnosis in 100% of patients; TOSV-specific IgM and IgG were detected in patients' sera up to 6 and 20 months after diagnosis, respectively. The avidity index (AI) increased over the first month after infection in 100% of patients and most cases exceeded 60% by Day 30 post infection. The AI subsequently plateaued then declined at 20 months after diagnosis. Finally, neutralization assay to TOSV was performed in 217 sera collected from 41 patients; 69.6% of tested samples resulted in reactive and moderate levels of neutralizing antibodies observed during all phases of infection despite high titres of total anti-TOSV IgG. CONCLUSIONS Specific antibody response develops rapidly and is long-lasting for neuroinvasive TOSV infection. Serodiagnosis of neuroinvasive TOSV requires simultaneous detection of specific IgM and IgG. Moderate levels of neutralizing antibodies were maintained over the study period, while the protective role of antibodies lacking neutralizing activity is unclear and requires further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Pierro
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Unit of Microbiology, The Romagna Hub Laboratory, Pievesestina, Italy.
| | - S Ficarelli
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - N Ayhan
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm1207 - EHESP) & Fondation IHU Méditerranée Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - S Morini
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Raumer
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Bartoletti
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Mastroianni
- Infectious Disease Unit, G.B. Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Italy
| | - F Prati
- Infectious Disease Division, Reggio Emilia Hospital, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - S Schivazappa
- Infectious Disease Division, Reggio Emilia Hospital, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - P Cenni
- Emergency Department, St. Maria della Scaletta, Imola, Italy
| | - C Vocale
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Rossini
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - P Gaibani
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - V Sambri
- Unit of Microbiology, The Romagna Hub Laboratory, Pievesestina, Italy; Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M P Landini
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R E Lewis
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R N Charrel
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm1207 - EHESP) & Fondation IHU Méditerranée Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - S Varani
- Unit of Microbiology, CRREM Laboratory, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Papa A. Emerging arboviral human diseases in Southern Europe. J Med Virol 2017; 89:1315-1322. [PMID: 28252204 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Southern Europe is characterized by unique landscape and climate which attract tourists, but also arthropod vectors, some of them carrying pathogens. Among several arboviral diseases that emerged in the region during the last decade, West Nile fever accounted for high number of human cases and fatalities, while Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever expanded its geographic distribution, and is considered as a real threat for Europe. Viruses evolve rapidly and acquire mutations making themselves stronger and naive populations more vulnerable. In an effort to tackle efficiently the emerging arboviral diseases, preparedness and strategic surveillance are needed for the early detection of the pathogen and containment and mitigation of probable outbreaks. In this review, the main human arboviral diseases that emerged in Southern Europe are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Papa
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Ergunay K, Ayhan N, Charrel RN. Novel and emergent sandfly-borne phleboviruses in Asia Minor: a systematic review. Rev Med Virol 2017; 27:e1898. [PMID: 27531681 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sandfly-transmitted phleboviruses are globally spread agents causing febrile diseases and central nervous system infections. The activity of pathogenic phleboviruses, as well as several novel strains, has been reported from Turkey, a transboundary country connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa with suitable habitats for sandflies. This study overviews all published data on phleboviruses from Turkey and evaluates the impact from the virological, epidemiological, and public health perspectives. A systematic review of Web-based global and local resources was performed. Comparison and phylogenetic analyses of particular phlebovirus sequences were also undertaken. Through the evaluation of 1693 international and regional entries, 31 manuscripts providing data on case reports or outbreaks, serological surveillance, animal infections and exposure, virus characterization, vector surveillance, and/or diagnostics were accessed. Detailed information on 5 novel phleboviruses completely or partially characterized during 2008-2015 as well as on clinical and epidemiological features of major phleboviruses established as human pathogens such as Toscana virus and sandfly fever Sicilian virus has been compiled. The ongoing activity of these agents, as indicated by consistently reported symptomatic cases and confirmed exposure in vertebrates including humans, was noted. The circulation in the Anatolian peninsula of phleboviruses with surprising diversity as well as distinct virus species is documented. Specific phlebovirus strains constitute a public health threat for local populations and travelers and must be considered in the diagnostic workup of clinically compatible cases. Human health impact and epidemiological aspects of certain viruses require further investigation via intensive surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koray Ergunay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nazli Ayhan
- UMR_D 190 "Emergence des Pathologies Virales,", IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Remi N Charrel
- UMR_D 190 "Emergence des Pathologies Virales,", IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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Seroprevalence study of Toscana virus and viruses belonging to the Sandfly fever Naples antigenic complex in central and southern Italy. J Infect Public Health 2017; 10:866-869. [PMID: 28237695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sandfly fever viruses are transmitted by the bite of phlebotomine sandflies; serotypes sandfly fever Naples virus, sandfly fever Sicilian virus and sandfly fever Cyprus virus cause febrile illness, whereas Toscana virus (TOSV) may cause neuroinvasive infections. Although TOSV is an important cause of aseptic meningitis in central and southern Italy, in many cases the infection is asymptomatic, leading to underestimation of the actual spread of the virus. This serosurvey aimed to assess the seroprevalence of TOSV in a random population in Siena (Tuscany, central Italy) in 2003-2004 and 2013-2014 and Bari (Apulia, southern Italy) in 2004 and 2015. 2132 serum samples were tested for the presence of anti-TOSV/SFNV IgG by means of ELISA and IFA commercial tests. Seroprevalence rates were compared in the two cities and over a ten-year period in the same city. Seroprevalence results in the Siena population (22.95% in 2003-2004 vs 26.75% in 2013-2014) confirmed the endemic circulation of TOSV and closely related viruses in central Italy, without major changes over the last decade, while no significant prevalence was observed in Bari (2.90% in 2004 vs 1.85% in 2015).
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Shiraly R, Khosravi A, Farahangiz S. Seroprevalence of sandfly fever virus infection in military personnel on the western border of Iran. J Infect Public Health 2017; 10:59-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Alwassouf S, Christodoulou V, Bichaud L, Ntais P, Mazeris A, Antoniou M, Charrel RN. Seroprevalence of Sandfly-Borne Phleboviruses Belonging to Three Serocomplexes (Sandfly fever Naples, Sandfly fever Sicilian and Salehabad) in Dogs from Greece and Cyprus Using Neutralization Test. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0005063. [PMID: 27783676 PMCID: PMC5081206 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Phleboviruses transmitted by sandflies are endemic in the Mediterranean area. The last decade has witnessed the description of an accumulating number of novel viruses. Although, the risk of exposure of vertebrates is globally assessed, detailed geographic knowledge is poor even in Greece and Cyprus where sandfly fever has been recognized for a long time and repeatedly. A total of 1,250 dogs from mainland Greece and Greek archipelago on one hand and 422 dogs from Cyprus on the other hand have been sampled and tested for neutralising antibodies against Toscana virus (TOSV), Sandfly fever Sicilian virus (SFSV), Arbia virus, and Adana virus i.e. four viruses belonging to the 3 sandfly-borne serocomplexes known to circulate actively in the Mediterranean area. Our results showed that (i) SFSV is highly prevalent with 71.9% (50.7–84.9% depending on the region) in Greece and 60.2% (40.0–72.6%) in Cyprus; (ii) TOSV ranked second with 4.4% (0–15.4%) in Greece and 8.4% (0–11.4%) in Cyprus; (iii) Salehabad viruses (Arbia and Adana) displayed also substantial prevalence rates in both countries with values ranging from 0–22.6% depending on the region and on the virus strain used in the test. These results demonstrate that circulation of viruses transmitted by sand flies can be estimated qualitatively using dog sera. As reported in other regions of the Mediterranean, these results indicate that it is time to shift these viruses from the "neglected" status to the "priority" status in order to stimulate studies aiming at defining and quantifying their medical and veterinary importance and possible public health impact. Specifically, viruses belonging to the Sandfly fever Sicilian complex should be given careful consideration. This calls for implementation of direct and indirect diagnosis in National reference centers and in hospital microbiology laboratories and systematic testing of unelucidated febrile illness and central and peripheral nervous system febrile manifestations. Phleboviruses transmitted by sandflies are endemic in the Mediterranean basin. An increased number of new viruses was described during the last decade. However, levels of exposure of human and animal populations are poorly known. A total of 1,250 dogs from Greece and 422 dogs from Cyprus were tested for the presence of neutralising antibodies signing previous infection with selected phleboviruses representing the 3 serological complexes known to be present in the Old World: Toscana virus (TOSV), Sandfly fever Sicilian virus (SFSV) and Salehabad viruses (Arbia and Adana viruses). Our data showed that (i) SFSV is largely predominant with infection rates higher than 50%, (ii) TOSV is widely distributed with 4.4% and 8.4% in Greece and Cyprus, respectively, and (iii) that viruses belonging to the Salehabad serocomplex should be further studied for their capacity to cause human disease in view of prevalence rates in dogs up to 22.6%. These findings confirm that dogs can be considered as excellent sentinels for sandfly-borne phleboviruses. The results also underline the importance to study the role of SFSV in humans and may lead to the set-up diagnostic tests for patients presenting unexplained febrile illness and neuroinvasive infections. Further studies are also needed to define whether these viruses cause diseases in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulaf Alwassouf
- UMR “Emergence des Pathologies Virales” (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - EHESP), Marseille, France
- Institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | | | - Laurence Bichaud
- UMR “Emergence des Pathologies Virales” (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - EHESP), Marseille, France
- Institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Pantelis Ntais
- Laboratory of Clinical Bacteriology, Parasitology, Zoonoses and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes. Heraklion. Crete, Greece
| | | | - Maria Antoniou
- Laboratory of Clinical Bacteriology, Parasitology, Zoonoses and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Voutes. Heraklion. Crete, Greece
| | - Remi N. Charrel
- UMR “Emergence des Pathologies Virales” (EPV: Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - EHESP), Marseille, France
- Institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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Alkan C, Erisoz Kasap O, Alten B, de Lamballerie X, Charrel RN. Sandfly-Borne Phlebovirus Isolations from Turkey: New Insight into the Sandfly fever Sicilian and Sandfly fever Naples Species. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004519. [PMID: 27007326 PMCID: PMC4805245 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Southern Anatolia in Turkey at the border with Syria, where many refugee camps are settled, is endemic for sandfly-borne leishmaniasis. Sandfly-borne phleboviruses are also known to circulate in this region, although their relevance in terms of medical implications is virtually unknown. Therefore, the specific objectives of our study were firstly to identify isolate and characterise potentially pathogenic phleboviruses in sandflies; secondly to determine the complete genomic sequence of any viruses that we were able to isolate; and thirdly, to further our understanding of the potential medical importance and epidemiological significance of these viruses. To achieve these objectives, we organised field campaigns in 2012 and 2013. Two new phleboviruses (Toros and Zerdali viruses) were isolated and characterized by complete genome sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. Toros virus was genetically most closely related to Corfou virus within the Sandfly fever Sicilian group. Zerdali virus was most closely related to Tehran virus within the Sandfly fever Naples species. Although these new viruses belong to genetic groups that include several human pathogens, it is not yet clear if Toros and Zerdali viruses can infect humans and cause disease such as sandfly fever. Consequently, the availability of these genetically characterized infectious viruses will enable seroprevalence studies to establish their medical importance in this region and to assist the health agencies to develop appropriate and effective disease control strategies. We provide evidence that sandfly-borne phleboviruses belonging to 3 distinct genetic and phylogenetic groups (Sandfly fever Naples virus [SFNV], Sandfly fever Sicilian virus [SFSV], and Salehabad virus [SALV]) co-circulate in Adana city, in Mediterranean Turkey. While Adana virus was recently described as a new member of the SALV species, Zerdali and Toros viruses are described here as new phleboviruses genetically closely related to SFNV and SFSV, respectively. In this study, isolated and characterised these two new viruses by determining their complete genome sequence and by phylogenetic analysis. This study demonstrates that 3 distinct viruses can co-circulate in the same geographic area and based on their phylogenetic relationships and association with sandflies are likely to be transmitted by these arthropod vectors. Our molecular and phylogenetic data are important for establishing group-specific molecular detection assays in order to further understand of the possible impact of these viruses in animal and human health in this region of Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cigdem Alkan
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille University—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Méditerranée Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille 13385, Marseille, France
- * E-mail: (CA); (RNC)
| | - Ozge Erisoz Kasap
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Ecology Section, ESR Laboratories, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bulent Alten
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Ecology Section, ESR Laboratories, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Xavier de Lamballerie
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille University—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Méditerranée Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Rémi N. Charrel
- UMR "Emergence des Pathologies Virales" (EPV: Aix-Marseille University—IRD 190—Inserm 1207—EHESP), Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU Méditerranée Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille 13385, Marseille, France
- * E-mail: (CA); (RNC)
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Amaro F, Hanke D, Zé-Zé L, Alves MJ, Becker SC, Höper D. Genetic characterization of Arrabida virus, a novel phlebovirus isolated in South Portugal. Virus Res 2016; 214:19-25. [PMID: 26795868 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In order to detect phleboviruses' natural infection in sandflies, an entomological survey was carried out, from May to October in 2007 and 2008, in Arrábida region in the south of Portugal. The isolation of a new phlebovirus was achieved after inoculation of a sandfly pool homogenate in Vero E6 cells. Based on the phylogenetic analysis of the complete genome sequences from the Small, Medium and Large, segments obtained with Next Generation sequencing, we can assume that the new phlebovirus, provisionally named Arrabida virus, is closely related to Massilia, Granada and Punique viruses. This is the first isolation of a sandfly-borne phlebovirus from the Sandfly Naples Fever Virus group in Portugal. Further investigation is needed in order to assess the importance of this phlebovirus for Public Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Amaro
- Centre for Vectors and Infectious Diseases Research, National Institute of Health Ricardo Jorge, Avenida da Liberdade 5, 2965-575, Águas de Moura, Portugal.
| | - Dennis Hanke
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Líbia Zé-Zé
- Centre for Vectors and Infectious Diseases Research, National Institute of Health Ricardo Jorge, Avenida da Liberdade 5, 2965-575, Águas de Moura, Portugal; Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisbon, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Alves
- Centre for Vectors and Infectious Diseases Research, National Institute of Health Ricardo Jorge, Avenida da Liberdade 5, 2965-575, Águas de Moura, Portugal.
| | - Stefanie C Becker
- Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30599 Hannover, Germany; Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Dirk Höper
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
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31
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Alten B, Ozbel Y, Ergunay K, Kasap OE, Cull B, Antoniou M, Velo E, Prudhomme J, Molina R, Bañuls AL, Schaffner F, Hendrickx G, Van Bortel W, Medlock JM. Sampling strategies for phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in Europe. BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2015; 105:664-678. [PMID: 26271257 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485315000127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of phlebotomine sand flies is widely reported to be changing in Europe. This can be attributed to either the discovery of sand flies in areas where they were previously overlooked (generally following an outbreak of leishmaniasis or other sand fly-related disease) or to true expansion of their range as a result of climatic or environmental changes. Routine surveillance for phlebotomines in Europe is localized, and often one of the challenges for entomologists working in non-leishmaniasis endemic countries is the lack of knowledge on how to conduct, plan and execute sampling for phlebotomines, or how to adapt on-going sampling strategies for other haematophagous diptera. This review brings together published and unpublished expert knowledge on sampling strategies for European phlebotomines of public health concern in order to provide practical advice on: how to conduct surveys; the collection and interpretation of field data; suitable techniques for the preservation of specimens obtained by different sampling methods; molecular techniques used for species identification; and the pathogens associated with sand flies and their detection methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Alten
- Hacettepe University (HUESRL),Ankara,Turkey
| | - Y Ozbel
- Ege University (EGE),Izmir,Turkey
| | - K Ergunay
- Hacettepe University,Medical Faculty (HU-MED),Ankara,Turkey
| | - O E Kasap
- Hacettepe University (HUESRL),Ankara,Turkey
| | - B Cull
- Medical Entomology group, Emergency Response Department,Public Health England,Salisbury,UK
| | - M Antoniou
- University of Crete (UoC),Heraklion,Greece
| | - E Velo
- Institute of Public Health (IPH),Tirana,Albania
| | - J Prudhomme
- UMR MIVEGEC (IRD 224 - CNRS 5290 - Universités Montpellier 1 et 2), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD),Montpellier,France
| | - R Molina
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII),Madrid,Spain
| | - A-L Bañuls
- UMR MIVEGEC (IRD 224 - CNRS 5290 - Universités Montpellier 1 et 2), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD),Montpellier,France
| | | | | | | | - J M Medlock
- Medical Entomology group, Emergency Response Department,Public Health England,Salisbury,UK
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Papa A, Kontana A, Tsergouli K. Phlebovirus infections in Greece. J Med Virol 2015; 87:1072-6. [PMID: 25733059 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Sandfly fever viruses are endemic in the Mediterranean region causing to humans asymptomatic or mild infections to severe neurological syndromes. In order to investigate the epidemiology of phlebovirus infections in Greece, samples from 499 patients with acute febrile illness (50.2% accompanied by neurological symptoms) were tested during 2010-2014 by serological and molecular methods. Phlebovirus infection was detected in 40 (8%) patients, 25 of them presenting acute neurological infection. Most cases were observed in the summer, with a peak in August. Increased number of cases was observed in 2013, and three of them were observed in Athens. Toscana virus lineage C RNA was detected in one encephalitis case, while the serological results showed that most cases were caused by phleboviruses belonging to the sandfly fever Naples virus serocomplex. This study provided the first insight into the epidemiology of phleboviral disease in Greece.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Papa
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Abstract
In this chapter, we describe 73 zoonotic viruses that were isolated in Northern Eurasia and that belong to the different families of viruses with a single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) genome. The family includes viruses with a segmented negative-sense ssRNA genome (families Bunyaviridae and Orthomyxoviridae) and viruses with a positive-sense ssRNA genome (families Togaviridae and Flaviviridae). Among them are viruses associated with sporadic cases or outbreaks of human disease, such as hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (viruses of the genus Hantavirus), Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHFV, Nairovirus), California encephalitis (INKV, TAHV, and KHATV; Orthobunyavirus), sandfly fever (SFCV and SFNV, Phlebovirus), Tick-borne encephalitis (TBEV, Flavivirus), Omsk hemorrhagic fever (OHFV, Flavivirus), West Nile fever (WNV, Flavivirus), Sindbis fever (SINV, Alphavirus) Chikungunya fever (CHIKV, Alphavirus) and others. Other viruses described in the chapter can cause epizootics in wild or domestic animals: Geta virus (GETV, Alphavirus), Influenza A virus (Influenzavirus A), Bhanja virus (BHAV, Phlebovirus) and more. The chapter also discusses both ecological peculiarities that promote the circulation of these viruses in natural foci and factors influencing the occurrence of epidemic and epizootic outbreaks
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Ergunay K, Kasap OE, Orsten S, Oter K, Gunay F, Yoldar AZA, Dincer E, Alten B, Ozkul A. Phlebovirus and Leishmania detection in sandflies from eastern Thrace and northern Cyprus. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:575. [PMID: 25499083 PMCID: PMC4269954 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0575-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Phlebotomine sandflies are vectors of several pathogens with significant impact for public health. This study was conducted to investigate and characterize phlebovirus and Leishmania infections in vector sandflies collected in the eastern Thrace region in Turkey and Northern Cyprus, where previous data indicate activity of these agents. Methods Field sampling of sandflies was performed at 4 locations in Edirne and Tekirdag provinces of eastern Thrace and at 17 locations in Lefkosa, Girne, Magosa and Guzelyurt provinces of northern Cyprus. In sandfly pools, phlebovirus RNA and Leishmania DNA were screened via a generic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and kinetoplast minicircle PCR, respectively. Selected sandfly specimens unsuitable for pathogen detection were identified to species level. Cytochrome oxidase 1 gene region was used for DNA barcoding of selected specimens and pathogen positive pools. Positive amplicons were cloned and characterized by sequencing. Results A total of 2690 sandflies, collected from Eastern Thrace (15.4%) and Northern Cyprus (84.6%) were evaluated. Morphological examination of 780 specimens from Cyprus exhibited Phlebotomus perfiliewi sensu lato (72.6%), Phlebotomus tobbi (19.7%), Phlebotomus papatasi (2.8%), Laroussius sp. (1.6%) and Sergentomyia azizi (1.6%), Sergentomyia sp. (0.9%), Sergentomyia minuta (0.5%) and Phleobotomus jacusieli (0.1%) species. Pathogen screening was performed in 1910 specimens distributed in 195 pools. In eight pools of P.tobbi sandflies collected in Cyprus, Leishmania infantum DNA was demonstrated. Toscana virus (TOSV) genotype A sequences were identified in two pools of P. perfiliewi s.l. and one pool of P.tobbi sandflies from Cyprus. Co-infection of TOSV and Leishmania infantum was characterized in a P.tobbi pool. Sequences belonging to novel phleboviruses are revealed in three P. perfiliewi s.l. pools. One sequence, provisionally named Edirne virus, identified in Edirne province in eastern Thrace, demonstrated the highest rate of genomic similarity to Adria and Salehabad viruses. Furthermore, Girne 1 and Girne 2 viruses, identified in Girne province, revealed similarities to TOSV and Sandfly Fever Sicilian virus and related strains, respectively. Conclusions Activity of TOSV genotype A strains in Cyprus and co-infection of sandfly vectors with L. infantum was documented for the first time. Novel phlebovirus strains of unknown medical significance was identified in sampling regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koray Ergunay
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology Unit, Hacettepe University, Morphology Building 3rd Floor, 06100, Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Ozge Erisoz Kasap
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology, Division of Ecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Serra Orsten
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology Unit, Hacettepe University, Morphology Building 3rd Floor, 06100, Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Kerem Oter
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Filiz Gunay
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology, Division of Ecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | - Ender Dincer
- Advanced Technology Education, Research and Application Center, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey.
| | - Bulent Alten
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology, Division of Ecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Aykut Ozkul
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Virology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey.
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Alkan C, Bichaud L, de Lamballerie X, Alten B, Gould EA, Charrel RN. Sandfly-borne phleboviruses of Eurasia and Africa: Epidemiology, genetic diversity, geographic range, control measures. Antiviral Res 2013; 100:54-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2013.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Revised: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Sakhria S, Bichaud L, Mensi M, Salez N, Dachraoui K, Thirion L, Cherni S, Chelbi I, De Lamballerie X, Zhioua E, Charrel RN. Co-circulation of Toscana virus and Punique virus in northern Tunisia: a microneutralisation-based seroprevalence study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2429. [PMID: 24069484 PMCID: PMC3772032 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In northern Tunisia, the co-circulation of two related sand fly-borne phleboviruses, Toscana virus (TOSV) and Punique virus (PUNV) was previously demonstrated. In contrast to TOSV, a prominent human pathogen, there is no data supporting that PUNV is capable to infect and cause disease to humans. We studied the respective involvement of TOSV and PUNV in human infections in northern Tunisia through a seroprevalence study. Methods The presence of TOSV and PUNV neutralising antibodies (NT-Ab) was tested in human sera collected from 5 districts of the governorate of Bizerte, and the titres of NT-Ab were estimated by microneutralisation (MN) assay. Principal Findings A total of 1,273 sera were processed. TOSV and PUNV NT-Ab were detected in 522 (41%) and 111 sera (8.72%) respectively. TOSV seroprevalence varied from 17.2% to 59.4% depending on the district. Analysis of TOSV geometric mean titre values demonstrated a constant increase according to the age. The vast majority of sera containing NT-Ab were found to be more reactive toward TOSV than PUNV. Indeed, past infections with PUNV and TOSV were undisputable for 5 and 414 sera, respectively. Conclusions PUNV may be capable to infect humans but at a low rate. TOSV is responsible for the vast majority of human infections by sand fly-borne phleboviruses in northern Tunisia. TOSV must be considered by physician and tested in diagnostic laboratories for patients with meningitis and unexplained fever in northern Tunisia. In northern Tunisia, two different pheboviruses are known to circulate in sand fly population, Toscana virus (TOSV) and Punique virus (PUNV). In contrast to TOSV, a prominent human pathogen, there is no data supporting that PUNV is capable to infect humans and to cause a disease. We studied the respective involvement of TOSV and PUNV in human infections in northern Tunisia through a seroprevalence study. Because TOSV and PUNV are antigenically and genetically closely related, it is difficult to distinguish between them by using broadly reactive serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Thus, we developed a method of microneutralisation assay using the two viruses in a comparative manner. A total of 1,273 sera were processed. We provide first evidence to support (i) that Punique virus may be capable to infect humans but at a low rate, (ii) that TOSV, the most prevalent arbovirus in Southern Europe, is responsible for the vast majority of human infections by sand fly-borne phleboviruses in northern Tunisia. Therefore, it is important to consider TOSV as an important pathogen that needs to be included in all virological diagnostic concerning patients with meningitis and unexplained febrile illness originated from Northern Tunisia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurence Bichaud
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, UMR_D 190 “Emergence des Pathologies Virales”, Marseille, France
- IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Mohamed Mensi
- Regional Health Department, Governorate of Bizerte, Bizerte, Tunisia
| | - Nicolas Salez
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, UMR_D 190 “Emergence des Pathologies Virales”, Marseille, France
| | | | - Laurence Thirion
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, UMR_D 190 “Emergence des Pathologies Virales”, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Xavier De Lamballerie
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, UMR_D 190 “Emergence des Pathologies Virales”, Marseille, France
- IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | | | - Rémi N. Charrel
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, UMR_D 190 “Emergence des Pathologies Virales”, Marseille, France
- IHU Mediterranee Infection, APHM Public Hospitals of Marseille, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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Maroli M, Feliciangeli MD, Bichaud L, Charrel RN, Gradoni L. Phlebotomine sandflies and the spreading of leishmaniases and other diseases of public health concern. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2013; 27:123-47. [PMID: 22924419 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2915.2012.01034.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 468] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Phlebotomine sandflies transmit pathogens that affect humans and animals worldwide. We review the roles of phlebotomines in the spreading of leishmaniases, sandfly fever, summer meningitis, vesicular stomatitis, Chandipura virus encephalitis and Carrión's disease. Among over 800 species of sandfly recorded, 98 are proven or suspected vectors of human leishmaniases; these include 42 Phlebotomus species in the Old World and 56 Lutzomyia species in the New World (all: Diptera: Psychodidae). Based on incrimination criteria, we provide an updated list of proven or suspected vector species by endemic country where data are available. Increases in sandfly diffusion and density resulting from increases in breeding sites and blood sources, and the interruption of vector control activities contribute to the spreading of leishmaniasis in the settings of human migration, deforestation, urbanization and conflict. In addition, climatic changes can be expected to affect the density and dispersion of sandflies. Phlebovirus infections and diseases are present in large areas of the Old World, especially in the Mediterranean subregion, in which virus diversity has proven to be higher than initially suspected. Vesiculovirus diseases are important to livestock and humans in the southeastern U.S.A. and Latin America, and represent emerging human threats in parts of India. Carrión's disease, formerly restricted to regions of elevated altitude in Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, has shown recent expansion to non-endemic areas of the Amazon basin.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maroli
- Unit of Vector-Borne Diseases and International Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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Anagnostou V, Papa A. Prevalence of antibodies to phleboviruses within the sand fly fever Naples virus species in humans, northern Greece. Clin Microbiol Infect 2013; 19:566-70. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2012.03957.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Seroprevalence of Toscana virus among residents of Aegean Sea islands, Greece. Travel Med Infect Dis 2013; 11:98-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 11/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Ergunay K, Erisoz Kasap O, Kocak Tufan Z, Turan MH, Ozkul A, Alten B. Molecular Evidence Indicates ThatPhlebotomus major sensu lato(Diptera: Psychodidae) Is the Vector Species of the Recently-Identified Sandfly Fever Sicilian Virus Variant: Sandfly Fever Turkey Virus. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2012; 12:690-8. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2011.0927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Koray Ergunay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Virology Unit, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozge Erisoz Kasap
- Department of Biology, Division of Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeliha Kocak Tufan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, MOH Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mahur H. Turan
- Department of Virology, Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aykut Ozkul
- Department of Virology, Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bulent Alten
- Department of Biology, Division of Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Calamusa G, Valenti RM, Vitale F, Mammina C, Romano N, Goedert JJ, Gori-Savellini G, Cusi MG, Amodio E. Seroprevalence of and risk factors for Toscana and Sicilian virus infection in a sample population of Sicily (Italy). J Infect 2012; 64:212-7. [PMID: 22120113 PMCID: PMC3630500 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2011.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2011] [Revised: 11/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/12/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to assess seroprevalence of and risk factors for Toscana (TOSV) and Sicilian (SFSV) virus infections in a sample of Sicilian subjects. METHODS A cross-sectional seroepidemiological study was conducted on 271 individuals. Each participant completed a self-administrated questionnaire and provided a serum sample which was analyzed for the presence of IgG specific anti-TOSV and anti-SFSV viruses. RESULTS Overall, 90 subjects (33.2%) were positive for TOSV IgG, 25 (9.2%) were positive for SFSV IgG and 11 (4%) were positive for both the viruses. A higher risk for TOSV seropositivity was found in participants who were older (adjOR = 1.02 per year; 95% CI = 1.01-1.03), having a pet living outdoors (adjOR = 2.62; 95% CI = 1.42-4.83) and being obese (adjOR = 2.37; 95% CI = 1.06-5.30). CONCLUSIONS TOSV seroprevalence appears to be relatively high in Sicilian general population, especially in older adults, representing a potential public health concern. The observations that seropositivity for TOSV was not significantly associated with SFSV seropositivity, and none of the risk factors associated with TOSV were associated with SFSV seem to suggest that these two phleboviruses may have different ecology and transmission pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Calamusa
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion “G. D’Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosalia Maria Valenti
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion “G. D’Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Vitale
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion “G. D’Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina Mammina
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion “G. D’Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Nino Romano
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion “G. D’Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Italy
| | - James J. Goedert
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
| | | | - Maria Grazia Cusi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Microbiology Section, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Emanuele Amodio
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion “G. D’Alessandro,” University of Palermo, Italy
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Xanthopoulou K, Anagnostou V, Ivovic V, Djurkovic-Djakovic O, Rogozi E, Sotiraki S, Papa A. Distribution of Sandflies (Diptera, Psychodidae) in Two Ionian Islands and Northern Greece. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2011; 11:1591-4. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2011.0750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kyriaki Xanthopoulou
- A′ Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Anagnostou
- A′ Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vladimir Ivovic
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Olgica Djurkovic-Djakovic
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Elton Rogozi
- Department of Control of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Public Health, Tirana, Albania
| | - Smaragda Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute of Thessaloniki, National Agricultural Research Foundation (NAGREF), Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Papa
- A′ Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Kocak Tufan Z, Weidmann M, Bulut C, Kinikli S, Hufert FT, Dobler G, Demiroz AP. Clinical and laboratory findings of a sandfly fever Turkey Virus outbreak in Ankara. J Infect 2011; 63:375-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2011.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Anagnostou V, Pardalos G, Athanasiou-Metaxa M, Papa A. Novel phlebovirus in febrile child, Greece. Emerg Infect Dis 2011; 17:940-1. [PMID: 21529422 PMCID: PMC3321796 DOI: 10.3201/eid1705.101958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Ergunay K, Whitehouse CA, Ozkul A. Current Status of Human Arboviral Diseases in Turkey. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2011; 11:731-41. [DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2010.0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Koray Ergunay
- Virology Unit, Department of Medical Microbiology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Chris A. Whitehouse
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Maryland
| | - Aykut Ozkul
- Department of Virology, Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Abstract
Sandflies were collected in two districts of Albania and tested for a probable phlebovirus infection. A novel phlebovirus, provisionally named Adria virus, was detected in 2/12 pools, both trapped in a region close to the Adriatic Sea. The new virus is genetically closer (similarity 77.1% at nucleotide level) to Arbia virus, which belongs to the Salehabad serocomplex. Its distribution and probable pathogenicity to humans remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Papa
- 1st Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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47
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Ergünay K, Saygan MB, Aydoğan S, Lo MM, Weidmann M, Dilcher M, Sener B, Hasçelik G, Pınar A, Us D. Sandfly fever virus activity in central/northern Anatolia, Turkey: first report of Toscana virus infections. Clin Microbiol Infect 2010; 17:575-81. [PMID: 20731683 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2010.03346.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sandfly fever viruses (SFVs) cause febrile diseases as well as aseptic meningitis/encephalitis and include serotypes sandfly fever Sicilian virus (SFSV), sandfly fever Naples virus (SFNV) and Toscana virus (TOSV). Infections are endemic in the Mediterranean basin and data on SFV activity in Turkey are limited. In this study, sera from 1533 blood donors from the Ankara, Konya, Eskisehir and Zonguldak provinces of Turkey were evaluated for SFV exposure by indirect immunofluorescence test (IIFT) and confirmed by virus neutralization test (VNT). One hundred and two patients with central nervous system (CNS) infections of unknown aetiology were also tested via IIFT and real-time reverse-transcription PCR for SFV/TOSV. Rate of overall IgG reactivity in IIFT was 32.9% (505/1533) among blood donors. TOSV exposure was confirmed by VNT in all study regions. Exposure to the recently-identified serotype sandfly fever Turkish virus, as evaluated by VNT, was revealed in Konya and Ankara. SFNV exposure was identified in Konya and SFSV was observed to be present in all regions except Zonguldak. TOSV RNA was detected in 15.7% (16/102) and was accompanied by TOSV IgM in 25% (4/16) of the patients. Partial L and S sequences suggested that TOSV circulating in Turkey can be grouped into TOSV genotype A strains. Exposure to TOSV and other SFV serotypes was revealed in blood donors and CNS infections by TOSV were identified for the first time in Turkey. Infections are observed to be endemic in central Anatolia and should be considered as aetiologic agents in cases/outbreaks of fever and meningoencephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ergünay
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, 06100 Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
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Çarhan A, Uyar Y, Özkaya E, Ertek M, Dobler G, Dilcher M, Wang Y, Spiegel M, Hufert F, Weidmann M. Characterization of a sandfly fever Sicilian virus isolated during a sandfly fever epidemic in Turkey. J Clin Virol 2010; 48:264-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2010.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2009] [Revised: 05/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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49
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Anagnostou V, Sdouga M, Volakli H, Violaki A, Papa A. Phlebovirus meningoencephalis complicated by Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia: a case report. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2010; 11:595-6. [PMID: 20575643 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2010.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In June 2004 an 8-year-old boy was admitted to a hospital in Thessaloniki, Greece, because of high fever, tachypnea, hypotonia, diarrhea, and tonoclonic convulsions. Phlebovirus infection was diagnosed by IgG seroconversion to Toscana virus. As IgM antibodies were not detected, it is suggested that this was an acute infection caused by a phlebovirus virus distinct from Toscana virus. Complication by a hospital-acquired Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia resulted in 2 months of hospitalization. Slight ataxia was still present on discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vassiliki Anagnostou
- A' Department of Microbiology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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50
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Cusi MG, Savellini GG, Zanelli G. Toscana virus epidemiology: from Italy to beyond. Open Virol J 2010; 4:22-8. [PMID: 20517492 DOI: 10.2174/1874357901004020022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2009] [Revised: 11/04/2009] [Accepted: 11/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toscana virus (TOSV) is an arthropod-borne virus which is transmitted to humans by Phlebotomus spp sandflies. Infection is the cause of brain injuries, such as aseptic meningitis and meningoencephalitis, in Italy mainly during the summer. More recently some unusual clinical manifestations due to TOSV with severe sequelae, such as ischemic complications and hydrocephalus, have been reported. TOSV represents an important emerging pathogen and its presence is being investigated in several European countries on the Mediterranean basin, including Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and Cyprus. Phylogenetic analysis has distinguished two genotypes of TOSV, A and B; the first is circulating mainly in Italy and the second in Spain, indicating a different geographic distribution possibly related to the vector. This distribution, evolving with the climate, globalization and habitat modification, has implications for the epidemiology of TOSV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Cusi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Microbiology Section, University of Siena, Policlinico "S. Maria alle Scotte", Siena, Italy
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